Domaine Jean Louis Chave Hermitage Rouge 2023

Critics thoughts - The 2023 L’Hermitage is hauntingly floral at this early stage, with captivating aromatics of rose petal, crushed violet, sour cherry, red plum, cedar and a delicate hint of orange blossom.  As usual, Chave showcased individual lieux-dits, with Les Beaumes standing out this year for its lively energy and laser-like precision. That said, the wine’s core pillars, Les Bessards and L’Ermite, are marked by outstanding purity.

While the 2023 eventually may not match the concentration or sheer impact of the 2022, it might reveal hidden surprises as it develops further.  Nicolas Greinacher – Vinous, Nov 2024 Drink: 2028 – 2042 94 – 96 Points

A tasting of constituent barrels suggests this will be a particularly approachable and supple vintage of Chave’s Hermitage – it is a vintage without great tannic mass or strong acidity, but has deliciously ripe Méal fruit. Very elegant, if fairly low in tannin compared to a typical year, this will drink well young, starting at around 2036 really, but will be approachable, if less rewarding, earlier than that. It will drink before the 2022, and probably not last as long. Undoubtedly a big step up from the 2021, but doesn’t quite have the soaring majesty of the 2019 or the 2020. Matt Walls – Decanter, Oct 2024 Drink: 2025 – 2035 97 Points